The try-out game went on, growing more fierce as each player struggled to make a record. Bill was a marvel with the ball. But one hit was registered off him during the five innings that he pitched. After the contest there was a consultation among the captain, manager and coach and it was announced to the anxiously waiting ones that Bill Smith would pitch the first five innings of the opening game with Tuckerton, with Mersfeld as second pitcher, while Cap Smith would catch for his brother, and Dean Denby for Mersfeld.
“I told you that’s how it would be!” cried Whistle-Breeches clapping Bill on the back with such heartiness that the pitcher’s glasses nearly flew off.
“Boy, I’m proud of you!” spoke Cap fervently.
Mersfeld said nothing but there was a bitter feeling in his heart.
“An upstart Freshman!” he muttered as he passed by Bondy Guilder.
“That’s what,” agreed the rich youth, “and I’d like to see him taken down a peg. Do you know how it can be done?”
“No,” replied the rival pitcher.
“Come here and I’ll tell you,” suggested Bondy, and the two walked across the diamond arm-in-arm, talking earnestly, and the talk boded no good for Bill Smith.